Laramie Senior 1 & 2 Syllabus

Teacher : Mr. Mike Hancey Department: /Performing Course Name: Musical Theatre Location: Theater Schedule: 2nd – ; 4th – Musical Theater 2; 5th – Musical Theater 1 Information: Planning periods – 1st and 3rd blocks; Theater Manager 6th & 7th Blocks School phone: TBD School email: [email protected] Cell phone: 208-351-1436

Course Description This course is for the student that is interested in Musical Theatre – both on and “behind the scenes”. Students will have the opportunity to rehearse, perform, direct, and choreograph/stage various scenes and shows from the . All students are expected to both perform and direct/produce. will be both in-class and “main-stage” productions. Performances are required for all students.

 Students will obtain training and skills associated with Musical Theatre: , acting and movement/choreography, and use correct terminology and vocabulary in written and oral discussion.  Students will achieve understanding of the historical, creative, artistic, and aesthetic aspects of musical theatre in relationship to American .  Students will gain knowledge and understanding of the social and cultural impact of the musical theatre form on and .  Students will achieve a professional and personal understanding of through , , performances and presentations (both written and aural).

Standards Addressed  Wyoming Fine and Performing Arts Standards 1. CREATIVE EXPRESSION THROUGH PRODUCTION. Students create, perform, exhibit or participate in the Arts. 2. AESTHETIC PERCEPTION. Students process, analyze and respond to and make informed judgments about the Arts.

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3. HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL CONTEXT. Students demonstrate an understanding of the Arts in relation to history, and society. 4. APPLICATION TO LIFE. Students connect and relate the Arts to other disciplines and to society.

Prerequisites: Musical Theatre 1 – No prerequisites; Musical Theatre 2 – Successful completion of Musical Theatre 1, , or director approval

Curriculum Outcomes:  The student will demonstrate and fulfill personal responsibilities in a Musical Theatre production.  The student will use vocabulary to define and analyze musical theatre terminology.  The student will list and define selected aspects of musical theatre  The student will use appropriate vocabulary for musical theatre in class, rehearsals and in .  The student will identify and apply dramatic elements as applied to Musical Theatre.  The student will identify and apply the basic elements of music as applied to Musical Theatre.  The student will identify and explain the basic elements of as applied to Musical Theatre  The student will identify and explain the role of director, technical designers, conductor, musical director and choreographer as applied to Musical Theatre.  The student will explain the purposes and expectations of accompanist and members  The student will analyze and explain the role of the technician/producer and manager in Musical Theatre  The student will identify the productions of major playwrights, lyricists, and .  The student will explain the function of the , lyricist, and “book” writer in musical theatre.  The student will identify and demonstrate correct vocal techniques for Musical Theatre.  The student will identify and discriminate among soprano, alto, tenor and bass vocal lines as applied to Musical Theatre.  The student will perform a musical presentation as a soloist, in a duet, or in an ensemble.  The student will identify and explain the specific technical requirements needed for a musical theatre presentation.  The student will discuss the effects technical and design elements have on actors, directors, and .  The student will collaborate with others in musical theatre presentations or activities  The student will create a character for musical theatre based on past emotions and sensory experiences  The student will create a character for musical theatre based on observation, movement and imagination.  The student will utilize movement techniques to develop a character.  The student will recognize and utilize the vocal (acting) elements to create a character for musical theatre.  The student will develop a character for musical theatre based on the social and emotional dimensions of musical theatre characters.  The student will effectively use the areas of a stage for a musical theatre presentation.

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 The student will identify and use appropriate musical theatre dance preparations and performance techniques.  The student will analyze dramatic texts as basis for musical theatre presentations.  The student will assess and explain discipline, skills, and education required for career preparation in musical theatre.  The student will identify and use available resources for the production of musical theatre.  The student will analyze and explain similar, themes, content, and elements among other art forms and musical theatre.  The student will utilize other academic disciplines to create a musical theatre presentation.  The student will use existing technology equipment and resources for musical theatre activities and performances.  The student will discuss the role and responsibility of the as an integral part of musical theatre.  The student will identify and report on styles and themes of theatre, music, and dance as applied to musical theatre.  The student will analyze and explain theatre, music, and dance from other cultures.  The student will recognize and explain the influence of heritage, culture, and historical periods on musical theatre styles.  The student will define and apply cultural and social elements to coordinate with dance, musical, and theatrical style of musical theatre.  The student will investigate and report musical theatre styles and trends throughout history in a social and cultural context.

Materials and Supplies:  Students will be provided all scripts and music scores that will be used for each production  Students will need to provide a 3-ring binder for all class work and assignments  It is suggested that students purchase their own make-up kit; additional information will be provided during the make-up unit.

Fees:  All girls will need to use character shoes throughout the course; you may purchase them through the school or secure them on your own. Price TBD.  All boys will need plain black dress shoes. Preferably with leather soles.  For hygienic purposes, it is highly recommended that students purchase their own make-up to be used throughout the school year.  Students may be asked to provide specialty pieces. Every effort will be made to keep this expense to a minimum.

Text Resources and Supplemental Resources:  The texts that we will use in class will be scripts and musical scores from a variety of sources.  Online resources will also be used.  A variety of teacher created handouts will also be used.

Technology:  Students will be expected to use a variety of technology resources when studying public relations and publicity, including but not limited to graphic design, social media and publishing software.

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 Students will also be expected to use a variety of technology for researching and designing , sets, and make-up.

Homework:  Homework for this class will primarily be based on personal for scenes//choreography for the various presentations that are involved in this class.  Homework may also include research for the various technical aspects of Musical Theatre; including but not limited to: history and technical design (set, costume, make-up).

Make-up work: Due to the nature of the class, make-up work will be minimal. This class is organized around major performances; therefore, specific deadlines are in place to ensure that the best possible performance is presented to our audience. In the event that make-up work is needed, the student will need to approach the teacher for specific information/assignment.

Retakes and redos: It is the responsibility of the student to plan ahead and ensure that they are available for scene work tests. For any written tests, the student will have one-week to make up a test due to an excused absence. No retake/redo for unexcused absences.

Testing: Testing will be either in performance or in written format.  Testing that is performance based must be completed on the actual date, no retake/redo for performance based evaluation.  Testing that is written based – see above information

Calendar and/or schedule Students will be provided a REHEARSAL SCHEDULE for each production of the year. Rehearsals will be both IN-CLASS and evening rehearsals. Evening rehearsals will be used approximately two-weeks prior to each production.

November 11-12, 2016 January 27-28, 2017 “ – The British Musical” “Taming of the Shrew” – LHS Theatre LHS Theater Guild Nov. 11 – 7 p.m. LHS Theater; 7 p.m. Nov. 12 – 2 p.m. & 7 p.m. [Peter Pan Pirate Party @ 12 noon] February 11, 2017 December 2-3, 2016 Madrigal Dinner – LHS Musical All-State Drama Theatre, , and Drama UW, Laramie LHS Commons & Theater; 6 p.m.

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March 9-15, 2017 May 19-20, 2017 NYC Tour – Musical Theatre, Choirs, “” and Drama LHS Theater; 7 p.m. Touring production beginning May 15 April 27-29, 2017 to ACSD1 schools “Little Shop of Horrors” LHS Theater; 7 p.m. May 23, 2017 Awards Night – Musical Theatre, Choirs, and Drama LHS Theater; 7 p.m.

Grading: Students will be evaluated and graded in the following areas

 Performances/Tests (Group & Individual) – 40%  Rehearsal – 20%  Assignments/ Quizzes – 20%  Projects – 20%

Performances will be either in-class or main stage. Performances will be a combination of solo, small group, or large ensemble.

Rehearsal points are given if students come to rehearsal prepared with script, music, pencil and appropriately dressed (choreography). If a student is missing items or does not participate, they will not receive full points.

Additional rehearsals will be necessary outside of class the closer that we get to productions (usually, the final two weeks of a production). Dates, and locations for rehearsal will be provided so that students may make appropriate plans for work, sports and family.

Assignments/Quizzes – A variety of assignments will be given throughout the course of the class. These assignments will be based on various units of study. These assignments will need to be kept in the students’ 3-ring binder for the entirety of the academic school year.

Quizzes will be given (primarily written) over the units covered in class.

Projects will be assigned (both individual and group) for each unit studied. These projects will directly align to the major performance for each semester.

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Academic and Behavior Expectations Class time/Rehearsal Expectations Our time together should be considered “sacred”. We will always have a lot of material and music//choreography to cover. Professionalism is a choice. For us to gain the most of our time you must: 1. Be Prepared. That means having your script, music and a pencil (NO PENS!) at all times during the class/rehearsal period. It is YOUR responsibility to have your script and music memorized by the deadlines given. 2. Be Ready. That means in your assigned seat when the bell rings, with all materials needed, mentally prepared to start. For you to receive full rehearsal points you must not only be in your seat ready to go at the start of class but have everything you need for the day. 3. Be Responsible. This means that you take ownership of all of your belongings. Have them with you at all times. You are free to take them home to practice with, but you need them every day in class. 4. Be Respectful. This means that all gum, food, candy, drinks, etc. stop at the door. This also means that there is no uninvited talking during demonstrations, presentations or rehearsal. This also means no uninvited cell phones out during this time. This is your FIRST and ONLY warning about phones. Respect the time we have by not making me stop class for these things. a. Respect the learning of others – that means helping one another b. Respect others in the room – accompanists, guest artists, substitute teachers, visitors, etc. c. Respect the performances of others at all times – that means remaining quiet during their performances and offering constructive criticism when called on. 5. Be Positive. Musical Theatre can be fun and exciting; it can also be hard work and very intensive. Your personal attitude will determine the type of experience you will have. We all have bad days so let’s work together to make our time together the best it can be.

General Classroom Rules & Responsibilities

1. Music and Script Assignments – Students will be assigned the appropriate script and music for each production. everything is assigned to a student the student is then responsible for the care of materials. When a script or music is lost or damaged (including music marked in PEN) the student is responsible for paying a replacement fee. YOU WILL NEED TO PROVIDE a 1 in. 3-ring folder for your classroom notes and handouts. 2. Passing – Restroom privileges will be given sparingly. It is preferred that you take care of all personal business prior to the start of class. No restroom passes will be given during the first 15 minutes of class. To pass to the restroom you must sign out on the travel clipboard noting the time out and return time. Only one person will be permitted to pass at a time. Abuse of the passing privilege will suspend it for all. 3. Practice rooms may be used during SEB by requesting a room and requesting a pass from Mr. Hancey before school. Practice rooms may also be used before and after school on a “first- come” basis.

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4. Performance Attire – For all performances, students will be expected to wear the appropriate attire/costume assigned. Specific information and assignments will be given prior to each performance as to what is expected. a. Specialty costume items may be used for specific performances. Every effort will be made to keep the cost of these items to a minimum. b. For each performance ALL personal jewelry must be removed prior to the performance. If you have piercings that cannot be removed, cover them with nude colored medical tape. c. should be fastened back and out of the face for all performers. For main-stage performances there may be different requirements for hair. d. Minimize your use of perfumes and colognes or scented and body spray. Maximize your use of unscented deodorant/antiperspirant. e. All women need neutral hose and black character shoes. All girls MUST use character shoes. You may order shoes through the school (price TBD) or secure them on your own. f. All men need black dress shoes – preferably with leather soles.

Safety Once a safety protocol has been developed for lock downs and other similar events and implemented for the LHS Theater, it will be shared with the students. Safety in the theater space is a top priority. As such, the first four days of class will be spent going over safety procedures and precautions in all areas of the theater including:

Field Trips We will occasionally take field trips throughout the year to either see other performances, visit , or to give performance. Load the busses outside of the classroom area by the mods and student parking.

Guests We will have guest presenters and clinicians visiting our class. Please be respectful of them at all times. LHS Vision LHS will empower students to meet life’s challenges.

LHS Motto To inspire every students to think, to learn, to achieve, and to care

LHS Mission Statement Laramie High School prepares and empowers all students for success in an ever-changing world through a balanced offering of challenging, high quality educational opportunities.

Laramie Senior High School 1275 North 11th Street Laramie, WY 82072

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Telephone: 307-721-4420 Attendance Office: 307-721-4499 Counseling Office: 307-721-4488 Web: http://lhs.acsd1.org/

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